ASU Commencement Spotlight: Nia’Keele White, Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance
nia'keele White, bachelor of Science in health and human performance
Future plans: Teacher in columbus, Ga and plans to enroll in an athletic training program
Nia’Keele White, a Columbus native, will graduate on May 11 with a bachelor’s degree in health and human performance. Nia’keele is passionate about spending time with family and friends and she loves to dance. She is a member of the Velma Fudge Grant Honors Program, Students Advocating for Stronger Sisterhood (SASS), Collegiate Women of Empowerment (CWOE), Versatility Dance Group and Health and Human Performance Club.
What motivated you to learn more about your field?
I have always had a passion for injuries and the rehabilitation process. Being in my major just confirmed my decision for me because I thoroughly enjoy every major class I’ve had and I actually want to know more when I’m in class.
Why did you choose ASU?
I chose ASU because on my first visit here everything just felt so personal. I was intrigued by the familial atmosphere and I was immediately assured that I would be more than just a number to my professors and that’s exactly what I wanted for my undergraduate education.
What do you love most about your chosen profession?
How my passion for the sports medicine/rehabilitation field can be exhibited through my work with future clients. The better I am at my job, the greater a chance these athletes will have at living their dreams by being able to play the sport they love at their full physical potential. An injury should not always have to be the end all be all for athletes and I plan to pour my whole self into the work I do.
Who has made the biggest impact on you and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?
The person who has made the biggest impact on me is my mother. We talk almost every day, if not twice a day and she has always encouraged me to be the best me I can be. The motivation she gives me is priceless and I’m glad I could make her proud by making it to this finish line. A person I consider a role model at ASU is my honors program advisor Mrs. Dedra Williams. From day one she showed us all tough love while still being the sweet and caring person she is. She tells me what I need to hear and not what I may want to hear at all times. If there was anything I ever needed, the Honors Program and Mrs. Williams were always there and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of a program where I received such excellent guidance.
What advice would you give to other ASU students?
Always remember why they came to ASU, to obtain a degree. As long as you keep your eyes on the prize any bump in the road you may encounter will never knock you off your path.
What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?
Don’t choose a major based on how much money they could possibly make but to choose based on what you’re a passionate about. When you actually enjoy what you are pursuing, your degree makes all the long nights so much more worth it.